Medical professionals (as well as federal and state officials) agree that health care consumers need to become their own advocates. Having clear personal records, a health plan (strategy), and forming a partnership with a primary care doctor are the first steps every American should take to ensure that they receive the health care that is right for them.

• The successful health care consumer is one who leads his/her own health care team.
• Medical emergencies can occur at any time – be prepared.
• Due to the complexity of health care today, medical errors are common. By being prepared and alert, over 80% of those errors can be prevented.
• Protect the next generation - simple steps make a difference for your children

Articles
The Institute of Medicine recommends changes in the way consumers access medical care. This advice is based on a 2006 study of medical errors. “The first step is to allow and encourage patients to take a more active role in their own medical care. In the past the nation’s health care system has generally been paternalistic and provider-centric, and patients have not been expected to be involved in the process. But one of the most effective ways to reduce medication errors, the report concludes, is to move toward a model of health care where there is more of a partnership between the patients and the health care providers. Patients should understand more…” For full article follow this link: www.iom.edu

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Web Sites:

Informed consumers need information!

For health information:
While being informed is important, putting the whole picture together often requires the experience and expertise of a medical professional.

Learn what you can then discuss and clarify your situation with your care providers.

Use the following web sites as starting points for your learning.

1. National Institutes of Health: This site offers information on diseases, health, and much more. Look under “health info” at www.nih.gov
2. Medline Plus: This web site is filled with health information. It is produced by the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health. Information includes health and wellness topics, drugs and supplements, medical dictionary and encyclopedia along with current health news. Find them at www.medlineplus.com